Right after Dana died, I know my familye and friends did all they could to be there for me.
One dear friend stayed at a distance. I wrote this as she did not call the first month. I knew she loved me, and I also knew that she felt the depth of my grief would overwhelm her - so she stayed away.
Here’s what I wrote at the time.
It took me a long time to share it with her. But I did.
And we hugged. And she called.
Run towards me…
Please don’t run away.
My grief won’t consume you
but your presence can help douse the flames.
Run towards me
with your arms outstretched
to catch me as I fall
I won’t crush you.
I promise.
Run towards me
no words are needed.
No words will help
But a hug, a shoulder, an ear…
And if you can’t run towards me
so as not to be touched by mortality
there but for the Grace of God
and the crushing blows of sadness…
Then call or text or connect somehow.
So I know I’m not forgotten.
I know she’s not forgotten.
And the flames of grief can be doused
with the courageous presence of friends who care…
My hope is that your friends and family know how to be here for you.
You can always SHARE this to remind them.
Sending love,
Linda xoxo
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